New England Patriots: Immediate Impact Rookies in 2015
By Hal Bent
Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad offensive guard Shaq Mason of Georgia Tech (70) enters the field during player introductions before the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The North won, 34-13. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports
Round 4, pick 131: Shaq Mason, OG/C:
New England drafted Georgia Tech center Shaq Mason at #131 overall with their final fourth round draft pick. Widely considered the best run blocker in this years draft class, he is athletic for his size and moves well in space. Mason used his shorter stature to his advantage generating leverage while in a run heavy offense. He will need a lot work in pass protection.
He most likely will be a reserve guard and center to start his career, but if he can develop as a pass protector, he could find a starting spot along the line in a year or two. Offensive line coach Dan DeGuglielmo is going to have to mold and coach Mason into a pass blocker. If Ryan Wendell sticks at right guard, expect Mason to be the future starter. Mason is not the biggest interior lineman at six-foot-one and 300 pounds, but he is strong and flashes impressive agility and athleticism.
Mason is a project who has to learn how to pass block. The 2015 season will see Mason add some bulk and learn to pass block in practice. He should be on the field for special teams and possibly in a jumbo package near the goal line with his run block skills.
Next: Round 5/6